'Rally for Humanity' Held at West Hartford Town Hall - We-Ha

U.S. Rep. John B. Larson was among those who spoke at a rally at West Hartford Town Hall on Saturday in response to the children who have been separated from their families along the border with Mexico.

Congressman John Larson addresses the crowd at the Rally for Humanity in West Hartford. June 23, 2018. Photo credit: Hunter Marotto

Photos by Hunter Marotto

A crowd estimated at about 100 attended a rally in front of the steps of West Hartford Town Hall on Saturday, protesting policies that have led to the separation of immigrant families who have entered the United States seeking refuge and asylum.

Since early May, reportedly about 2,300 children have been separated from their parents. About 500 have been reunited since President Donald Trump issued an executive order late last week ending the practice.

U.S. Rep. John Larson, who represents West Hartford, was among those who spoke at the rally. Jonathan Harris, a former West Hartford mayor, state representative, state commissioner, and most recently a candidate for governor, emceed the rally.

Other speakers included UConn History and Asian-American Studies Professor Dr. Jason Oliver Chang, immigration attorney Jeffrey Chase, Hartford City Councilor Wildaliz Bermudez, Jonathan Gonzalez-Cruz from Connecticut Students for a Dream, Rev. Teran Loeppke, and Al Dornan of Wethersfield, who walks several miles every day in support of Dreamers.

Many attendees added their handprints to a “Hands for Humanity” banner, and carried posters requesting reunification of families and support for immigrants, as well as denouncing the Trump administration.

Like what you see here? Click here to subscribe to We-Ha’s newsletter so you’ll always be in the know about what’s happening in West Hartford!

Attendees at the rally put their handprints on a poster. Rally for Humanity in West Hartford. June 23, 2018. Photo credit: Hunter Marotto